Friday, January 03, 2014

Breeding primarily in Northern Europe, in recent years the Lesser Black-backed Gull is increasingly being seen in Eastern North America during the Winter. Slightly smaller than the Herring Gull, it is easily separated from the more common species by its darker mantle and wings, pale eyes and yellow legs. Coney Island is likely the only place in New York City accessible by subway where one can find five or more species of gull in Winter. You can see a world range map for the Lesser Black-backed Gull here.